Cancer of the mesothelium is known to have a few primary symptoms. Pleural mesotheliomas primary symptom is a lack of breath caused by pleural effusion ” the accumulation of fluid in the pleura, or membrane, surrounding the lung. The next most common symptomis chest pain because the tumor is attacking the chest wall. Other symptoms may include weight loss, fatigue, and night sweats

The most common signof patients with abdomen mesothelioma, which is centralized in the abdomen, is fluid buildup (known as ascites) in the abdomen causing abdominal swelling, bowel obstruction, and stomach pain.

It is key to understand that other afflictions or diseases could be causing these symptoms. But if you have experienced any of these symptoms and have had asbestos exposure, you should see your doctor.

Pleural mesothelioma is problematic to diagnose, because less serious conditions also cause similar symptoms. Typical symptoms:

• Having trouble breathing
• Lower back or chest pains from a buildup of fluid in the pleura
• Fever
• Nausea
• Raspy voice
• Difficulty swallowing
• Coughing up blood

One should not self-diagnose themselves. People suffering from the above symptoms should remain calm and consult a doctor. Performing a biopsy is the standard way to confirm the condition. A pathologist removes a piece of tissue from the suspected area and performs an examination that will result in a very accurate diagnosis. Usually, biopsies do not hurt.

CT scans (Computed Tomography) are an option to avoid a biopsy. This is an X-ray procedure where a scanner is moved around the body to snap cross-sectional pictures. Once in a while, a dye is ingested by the patient to help define the images. CT scans have an advantage over biopsies by being easier and non-invasive, and they are known to be an effective diagnostic tool. Opinion is divided as to whether the scan is more or less cost-effective than a biopsy. If there are abnormalities, a biopsy may also be ordered to determine if a tumor exists, and if so, whether it is malignant or benign. It is also possible to diagnose pleural mesothelioma by testing a sample of fluid from the pleura for cancer cells.

Mesothelioma can also be screened and then diagnosed by any of these methods. Patients are screened when they suspect they may be at risk but do not have typical symptoms, to ensure they are not at risk to get the cancer or to catch the cancer early. Patients who have in their past inhaled asbestos, should be screened for mesothelioma.